Kina Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the country’s next generation of business leaders after partnering with the Young Port Moresby Chamber of Commerce and Industry (YPOMCCI) as the major sponsor of a professional networking event in Port Moresby.The event brought together young professionals, entrepreneurs, and industry representatives to strengthen business networks, build professional skills, and encourage collaboration among emerging leaders.YPOMCCI, a sub-committee of the Port Moresby Chamber of Commerce and Industry, provides opportunities for youths aged between 18 and 35 to develop leadership skills, expand professional networks and contribute to the country's growing business sector.Speaking during the event, Kina Bank Head of Wealth Management and Business Development Willie Konga, highlighted the importance of financial literacy and investment knowledge in supporting Papua New Guinea’s long-term economic growth.“Our team of experts provides in-depth analysis of the Papua New Guinea economy, helping every stakeholder understand the forces that shape our nation's growth,” Mr. Konga said.He said Kina Bank offers a range of wealth management and investment services designed to help individuals and businesses build long-term financial security.These include retail wealth management, funds management, stockbroking, fund administration, economic research and advisory services, investment banking, and corporate advisory.Kina Bank said its partnership with YPOMCCI reflects the bank’s broader commitment to empowering young Papua New Guineans by creating opportunities for professional development and financial independence.The bank said supporting organizations such as YPOMCCI helps strengthen the country’s business community by encouraging innovation, leadership, and collaboration among future business leaders.Through presentations, knowledge sharing, and networking sessions, participants gained practical insights into financial management, investment opportunities, and professional growth.

The people residing in some of the remote parts of the West Sepik province can expect improved road access in the near future to access vital services and development.This will be realized through the proposed construction of the Sepik Highway portion in the West Sepik province, which was just given the go ahead by the Governor General in Port Moresby city today.H.E. Grand Chief Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae, GCL, GCMG, KStJ, Governor General of Papua New Guinea, executed on behalf of the State the two multi-million Kina road contracts for West Sepik province at the Government House in Konedobu.This is the first contract for the design and construction of Sepik Highway from Warasikau Bridge (CH168+402km) to Lumi-Karaitem Road (CH257+754km) – 89.352km Road under the Connect PNG Program for West Sepik province.The contract is valued at K374, 290, 710.69, inclusive of GST, and contingency. The duration of the contract is 60 months, which should take about 5 years to complete.The Department of Works and Highways has accepted the bid by China Railway Construction Engineering Group (PNG) Limited, to carry out the design and construction of the Sepik Highway.Company representatives Klaus Jiang and Jeremy Zhu signed the contract before the Governor General, witnessed by Works & Highways Department Secretary Gibson Holemba at Government House this morning.Meanwhile, the second contract executed by the Governor General is for the design and construction of 186.9km Vanimo-Green Road from Daunda Junction to Vanimo Town to Green River Station in West Sepik province.The contract is valued at K726, 238, 596. 46, inclusive of GST and contingency. This one should take 6 years to complete.According to Secretary Holemba, the proposed road works falls within the Department’s statutory road management and technical oversight responsibilities under the Road (Management and Fund) Act 2020 and are consistent with the Government’s approved national road development and connectivity objectives under the Connect PNG Programme.The National Executive Council (NEC) has approved to award the contract to China Harbor Engineering Company (PNG) Limited. Company representatives Qi Zinhua and Deng Yongxing signed the contract before the Governor General and witnessed by Works & Highway Secretary Gibson Holemba at Government House today.

A cook from Lae city is running high after winning K50,000 in a Keno draw with a single K2 bet.Jonathan Yaba, originally from Southern Highlands Province, has been living at 8-Mile in Lae, Morobe Province, where he works at a Kai Bar along 8th Street.Having played Keno for only two months, Jonathan matched all 10 winning numbers to claim the K50,000 prize.Still overwhelmed by his win, Jonathan said he plans to invest the money wisely by either purchasing two taxis to start a transport business or buying a block of land.His jackpot is the largest Keno prize won at Lae Star City since the outlet opened, making it a milestone for the venue.Gaming operator 321 congratulated Jonathan on his win, describing his story as an example of how every Keno draw offers players the opportunity to change their lives.The company also reminded players across Papua New Guinea to gamble responsibly while trying their luck in future Keno draws.

The Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) has delivered a dividend of K76.95 million to the National Government after recording a net operating profit of K384.8 million for the 2025 financial year, highlighting the Central Bank’s strong financial performance and commitment to transparency.The central bank submitted its 2025 Annual Report and Financial Statements to Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey on June 26, in compliance with Section 44 of the Central Banking Act 2000 (as amended).The report details BPNG’s operational performance, monetary policy activities, and audited financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2025.BPNG Governor Elizabeth Genia said the timely submission demonstrates the institution’s continued commitment to sound governance and accountability.“The submission of the 2025 Annual Report in a timely manner reflects our continued efforts to strengthen transparency and accountability,” she said.Under the Central Banking Act, the K76.95 million dividends will be paid into the Consolidated Revenue Fund, while the remaining profit has been transferred to the Bank’s General Reserves in accordance with Section 50 of the Act.Meanwhile, Chairman of the BPNG Board Sir Robert Igara said the Board was confident in the Bank’s financial results and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting economic stability.“We look forward to continuing our constructive work together in promoting confidence and stability in Papua New Guinea’s economy,” Sir Robert said.The annual reporting process follows international central banking and accounting standards and forms part of BPNG’s annual financial reporting cycle.For businesses and investors, the results signal the continued financial strength and institutional stability of Papua New Guinea’s Central Bank, reinforcing confidence in the country’s financial system while demonstrating prudent management of the Bank’s earnings and reserves.The full 2025 Annual Report is available on the Bank of Papua New Guinea’s official website.

While most teams depart immediately after a sporting tournament, the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (UOT) soccer team chose to leave a lasting impact by volunteering to clean parts of Madang Town following the 2026 Intervarsity Soccer Tournament, which was hosted by Divine Word University (DWU).The 46-member contingent conducted a clean-up campaign along the beachfront from Nabis Inn towards Coronation Drive, clearing litter from the shoreline and the surrounding areas where they had been accommodated over the past five days.Team Manager Humphrey Manaseh said the initiative was the team’s way of showing appreciation to the people of Madang for their warm hospitality throughout the tournament.“We heard many good things about Madang through the media, and when we arrived, we saw for ourselves that the town had changed,” Mr. Manaseh said.“The town is clean, and the restrictions on chewing betel nut and smoking in public areas have created a very good impression.”Although the team did not reach the tournament finals, Mr. Manaseh noted that the players and staff were proud to make a meaningful civic contribution before returning home to Lae.“There are 46 of us, and even though we didn't make it to the finals, we are happy to contribute positively to Madang Province before we go back.”He added that the clean-up was a small gesture to help preserve the region’s long-standing reputation as “Beautiful Madang” and to formally thank the community for hosting the event.On behalf of the local residents, the Madang Provincial Events Committee (MPEC) expressed its gratitude to the PNG University of Technology team for their thoughtful initiative and dedication to environmental cleanliness.The MPEC concluded by wishing all 46 students and staff members a safe journey back to Morobe province.

The Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) has delivered a dividend of K76.95 million to the National Government after recording a net operating profit of K384.8 million for the 2025 financial year, highlighting the central bank's strong financial performance and commitment to transparency.The central bank submitted its 2025 Annual Report and Financial Statements to Treasurer Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey on June 26, in compliance with Section 44 of the Central Banking Act 2000 (as amended). The report details BPNG's operational performance, monetary policy activities, and audited financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2025.BPNG Governor Elizabeth Genia said the timely submission demonstrates the institution's continued commitment to sound governance and accountability."The submission of the 2025 Annual Report in a timely manner reflects our continued efforts to strengthen transparency and accountability," she said.Under the Central Banking Act, the K76.95 million dividend will be paid into the Consolidated Revenue Fund, while the remaining profit has been transferred to the Bank's General Reserves in accordance with Section 50 of the Act.Chairman of the BPNG Board Sir Robert Igara said the Board was confident in the Bank's financial results and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting economic stability."We look forward to continuing our constructive work together in promoting confidence and stability in Papua New Guinea's economy," Sir Robert said.The annual reporting process follows international central banking and accounting standards and forms part of BPNG's annual financial reporting cycle.For businesses and investors, the results signal the continued financial strength and institutional stability of Papua New Guinea's central bank, reinforcing confidence in the country's financial system while demonstrating prudent management of the Bank's earnings and reserves.The full 2025 Annual Report is available on the Bank of Papua New Guinea's official website.

Prime Minister James Marape has offered Papua New Guinea’s extensive experience in mining policy to assist the Solomon Islands in developing a modern resource regime.The initiative aims to maximize local benefits while keeping the sector attractive to investors.Prime Minister Marape welcomed an invitation from Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale for PNG mining companies to participate directly in developing mineral projects in the neighbouring nation.During bilateral discussions in Port Moresby, Prime Minister Marape emphasized that PNG has learned valuable lessons over decades of resource development- encompassing both successes and critical mistakes.“As you develop your mining laws, it is important to get them right from the beginning,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Papua New Guinea is still refining its own resource laws, but we have accumulated decades of experience.”“We are prepared to send our resource lawyers and technical experts to work with your team so that together we can develop policies that deliver long-term benefits for our people.”Both nations sit on the Pacific Ring of Fire, giving them immense potential to build prosperous economies from natural resources.PNG’s current policy framework seeks to ensure the State receives at least 55 percent of the total economic benefits from major projects through taxes, royalties, and equity.“Our objective is simple. Investors must make a reasonable return because they bring capital, technology and expertise.”“At the same time, the country that owns the resources must also receive a fair and equitable share of the benefits.”He stressed that equity represents direct ownership and decision-making power, which is fundamentally different from taxation.“Tax is simply what every company pays for doing business in our country. Equity represents ownership.”“When the State and landowners hold equity, they sit at the decision-making table and participate directly in the long-term value created by the project.”Drawing on national history, Prime Minister Marape noted that PNG’s resource reforms were heavily shaped by the Bougainville crisis at the Panguna Mine, where landowners initially received little direct ownership.“The Bougainville crisis remains a lasting reminder of what can happen when resource development is not perceived as fair by the people who own the land.”“Our biggest lesson is this: if you do not get the relationship with customary landowners right, the project will ultimately fail. Landowners must be central to any resource development policy.”Because resources in both nations are located on customary land, Prime Minister Marape highlighted the need to move away from legacy colonial agreements.“We carry the burden of history. Many of our older mining agreements reflected another era, and today we continue working to secure fairer outcomes for Papua New Guinea.”As a modern success story, he cited the recent reopening of the Porgera Gold Mine, where PNG interests negotiated a 51 percent stake. Prime Minister Wale expressed his intention to pursue a similar equity model in the Solomon Islands.“I commend Prime Minister Wale for embracing a vision that ensures the people of Solomon Islands receive a greater share of the wealth generated from their own natural resources,” Prime Minister Marape said.“He has invited Papua New Guinea mining companies to partner in the development of mining projects in Solomon Islands under a benefit-sharing model where Solomon Islands interests would retain 51 per cent equity while the investor holds 49 per cent, similar to the approach we negotiated at Porgera.”This partnership signals PNG’s emergence as a respected regional mining nation.State-owned entities Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited and Ok Tedi Mining Limited have already been tasked to explore these new opportunities.Prime Minister Marape also emphasized the importance of local content policies to ensure mining operations support domestic businesses and employment.“A successful mining industry is not measured only by taxes and royalties. It is also measured by how much business activity, employment, procurement and value creation remain within the country.”“Mining operations spend millions of dollars every month on goods and services. The more local businesses that supply those goods and services, the more wealth remains circulating in the national economy.”While the Solomon Islands has a unique greenfield opportunity to establish these policies early, Prime Minister Marape cautioned against creating overly harsh fiscal regimes that might deter investors.“Resource investors are not charities- they invest where projects remain commercially viable. You cannot expect investors to pay premium taxes while also surrendering excessive equity.”“Governments must strike the right balance, so investors continue to achieve internationally competitive returns while resource-owning countries receive a substantially greater share of the overall benefits.”Ultimately, the collaboration aims to build a stronger Pacific resource economy.“Our experience has taught us many valuable lessons. If those lessons can help the Solomon Islands avoid the mistakes we made and build a stronger resource economy from the beginning, while at the same time creating opportunities for Papua New Guinea companies to invest across the Pacific, then our partnership will benefit both our nations,” Prime Minister Marape concluded.

The 2027 National General Election (NGE) is coming up and those in the public sector intending to contest the election are being reminded to resign by October 2026, which is six months prior to the commencement of the election period next year.This reminder is in a circular issued by the Department of Personnel Management (DPM), which contains details further explaining the constitutional requirements along with the standard operation procedures for public servants’ resignations prior to the actual election period.The circular- Circular No. 15 of 2026 was issued yesterday, Monday 29th June by the Department Secretary Ms. Taies Sansan, and addressed to all departmental heads, heads of public authorities, all constitutional office holders, all provincial administrators and public servants.The circular states that Section 55 of the Public Services (Management) Act 1995 (as amended) requires that all public officers wishing to contest the 2027 NGE shall resign from office six (6) months prior to the date of issue of Writs by the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commissioner. The provisions of the Act for this purpose apply to all State Services and other Public Authorities.The acting Electoral Commissioner has declared that the Writs for the 2027 NGE will be issued on the 29th of April 2027 and the date six months prior to the issue of the Writs is 29th October 2026.     In terms of Service- related Entitlements and Reinstatement, all salary and allowances and other contractual entitlements due to the person resigning to contest the 2027 NGE, shall be ceased and all State properties under their custody are to be returned no later than 29th October 2026.“Each aspiring candidate shall be removed from the payroll forthwith in the next available pay,” the secretary stated, adding that the office held by the person at the time of resignation to contest the NGE will become vacant and be filled substantively or in an acting capacity by another officer.The circular also explained that if the officer is unsuccessful in winning a seat in the election, the officer has no automatic right to be re- admitted to the Public Service but may apply for re- appointment through the normal selection and recruitment process prescribed un the Public Service General Order No. 3.It went on to say that the officer may exercise the option to leave the service without receiving service- related termination benefits and if re- admitted to the Public Service, after being unsuccessful at the election, the period of absence will be taken as leave without pay.

The Gama Football Association in Markham District, Morobe is taking a new view to operate soccer in the area by registering with a soccer governing body. The Association has been running for decades with some players being exposed to national level but has not been formally registered with soccer governing body, the Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA), for many years. This time, the new executives, through the leadership of Sasu Gideon, have gained confidence from communities, new member clubs and officials, to climb the new heights. Sasu was a former player for the Association who later went on to play for Markham Football Club at the National Soccer League stage. His executives, formed to drive the code at the local level, have already gained interests from Markham District Development Authority (MDDA) and Manus Admiralty Football Club. Sasu said the new executives under his leadership don't want to repeat the old approaches where past executives had failed to register their local Association with the PNGFA. "We highly commend our District Development Authority through the chairmanship of Member for Parliament (MP) Koni Iguan to intervene and support us," Sasu said with the support from MDDA, the Association hosted Manus Admiralty Football Club for friendly matches. He added that with the MDDA support, the Association successfully staged its preseason this year and will now look at running proper season in the second week of July. While running the proper season, they will look at approaching Lae Football Association to become their affiliate to the PNGFA.Teams who participated in the preseason matches were from Umi and Artzera Local Level Government (LLG) council areas with few players from the Onga Wafa LLG area, who came on and played with other clubs. 

Western Pacific University (WPU) has reached a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey with the official launch of its AI-Enabled Digital Knowledge Hub, known as LearnX, alongside the distribution of SmartX Digital Learning Tablets.This initiative landmarks the university’s ongoing commitment to delivering innovative, inclusive, and technology-driven higher education within Papua New Guinea.The landmark event was officiated by the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Kinoka Hotune Feo, MP, who joined virtually.He was accompanied by WPU Council Chairman Mr. Edward Sasingian, with the event also featuring keynote remarks by Peter O’Neill, CMG, MP.The launch represents a major step in WPU’s vision of becoming a future-focused university that equips graduates with the digital capabilities, innovation mindset and critical thinking skills required to thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.At the centre of the initiative is LearnX, WPU’s integrated AI-powered digital learning ecosystem, combining a Learning Management System, Digital Library and student management platform into a single environment.The platform enables students and staff to access online learning, digital library resources, research databases, assessments, academic support services, and personalized learning experiences anytime and anywhere.Complementing the platform is the rollout of SmartX Digital Learning Tablets.These devices provide students and staff with portable access to course materials, e-books, learning resources, and collaborative tools designed to support flexible learning environments both on campus and remotely.Speaking at the launch, Professor Janet Bulumaris Rangou, President of WPU, described the occasion as a defining moment in the university’s journey towards becoming a digitally enabled institution that remains firmly grounded in PNG’s identity and values.“The launch of our Knowledge Hub represents far more than a physical or digital space,” Professor Rangou said.“It symbolizes our commitment to knowledge creation and sharing, innovation in teaching and learning, and our vision for a university that is globally connected while remaining deeply rooted in our local context, indigenous knowledge, cultures and traditions.”Professor Rangou further noted that WPU’s digital transformation was ultimately about creating opportunities for students and ensuring equitable access to quality education.“These tablets are not just devices- they are bridges to opportunity and symbols of possibility.”“Through our Technology Enhanced Learning agenda, we are reimagining education and preparing our students for a world increasingly shaped by technology.”She emphasized that while WPU is only six years old, it is determined to become a leading centre of innovation, research, and excellence that contributes meaningfully to PNG’s development.“Our future is bright- not because of time, but because of the courage, innovation and unity of our people,” Professor Rangou said, calling for unity across provinces and cultures, and between tradition and technology, as the university continues to build a stronger and more connected nation.The President also acknowledged the university’s strategic partnership with PowerX Technologies Limited, noting that their technical expertise has been instrumental in developing WPU’s AI-enabled digital learning ecosystem.The official ceremony also featured remarks by WPU Council Chairman Mr. Edward Sasingian, who commended the university’s commitment to embracing digital innovation and preparing graduates with the skills required for PNG’s evolving workforce.He highlighted the importance of collaboration between higher education institutions and industry in equipping students with practical knowledge and future-ready competencies.Delivering his address virtually, Minister Feo outlined his vision for a future-ready higher education system, emphasizing that digital transformation must expand access to quality education and prepare graduates for an increasingly technology-driven world.“By 2035, every university student in Papua New Guinea should have access to world-class learning resources, modern digital technologies, quality teaching, and opportunities for innovation regardless of where they live or study,” Minister Feo said.He also stressed that while artificial intelligence presents enormous opportunities for teaching, learning, and research, it must always be guided by human values.“The future we seek is not one where technology replaces people. It is one where technology empowers people.”The Minister commended Western Pacific University for translating the government’s vision for digital transformation into practical action and encouraged other higher education institutions across PNG to pursue similar pathways of innovation.The ceremony concluded with keynote remarks by Peter O’Neill before the official launch of the AI-Enabled Digital Knowledge Hub and the presentation of SmartX Digital Learning Tablets.As Papua New Guinea’s newest public university, Western Pacific University continues to invest in innovative teaching, research and digital infrastructure that expands educational access, strengthens learning outcomes and prepares graduates to lead national development in an increasingly digital world.

Schools in Kiunga, North Fly District, remained closed after violence erupted in the township following the death of a man who was allegedly struck by a drunk driver on Sunday night.School principals and head teachers suspended classes and sent students home as a precaution while authorities worked to restore order.Western Provincial Education Advisor Charlie Buia said the Provincial Education Division had temporarily suspended classes until the security situation could be fully assessed.He said education officials would meet with relevant authorities before deciding when it would be safe for students and teachers to return to school."The safety of our students cannot be guaranteed at this stage, so they have been advised to remain at home. Once a decision is made following our meeting with the relevant authorities, schools, students, and parents will be informed when classes will resume," Mr. Buia said.He urged students to remain indoors and use the time to complete homework, assignments, and revision rather than gathering in public places."We encourage all students to stay at home, continue their studies and avoid roaming around the streets for their own safety," he said.The unrest follows a series of fatal road accidents involving alleged drunk drivers in Kiunga in recent weeks.Three weeks ago, a mother and her child from Kungim village were killed in a suspected drink-driving incident. A week later, another man from Fuma in Nomad, Middle Fly District, was allegedly killed by a drunk driver in a separate incident on Sunday night.Police have confirmed that the drivers involved in both incidents have been arrested and remain in custody while investigations continue.Businesses across Kiunga, including shops, the BSP Bank branch, fuel stations and the town market, remained closed as authorities monitored the situation.However, Kiunga District Hospital and other health facilities continue to operate as normal.Authorities, supported by police and Papua New Guinea Defence Force personnel, restored calm in the town after relatives of the deceased allegedly attempted to retaliate against Highlander residents.Security personnel remain on the ground and continue to monitor the situation as normalcy gradually returns to the township.

The Rai Coast District Development Authority (RDDA) successfully launched the district’s first-ever 84 Wards Cooperative initiative during a workshop that was held at the Madang Resort Conference Room, marking a significant milestone in empowering local communities through cooperative development.The historic event was officially launched by Rai Coast MP and Minister for Labour and Employment Kessy Sawang and attended by all 84 Ward Councilors and four Local Level Government (LLG) Presidents from across the district.The workshop commenced with Minister Sawang presenting her vision behind the Ward Cooperative initiative.She outlined the importance of cooperatives as a vital platform for economic empowerment, community participation, and sustainable development at the grassroots level.Following the Minister’s address, Ms. Shirley Hirongopa, the Business Development Coordinator for the Momase Region within the Cooperative Societies Division of the Department of Commerce and Industry, spoke to the attendees.She highlighted the critical role that cooperatives play in driving local economic growth and improving livelihoods within rural communities.The program continued with an in-depth presentation on the Ward Cooperative platform and its legal framework, delivered by Mr. Hubert Namani and his team from Namani Lawyers.Their session provided the councilors with a comprehensive understanding of the legal requirements, governance structures, and operational procedures necessary to successfully establish and manage cooperatives within their respective wards.After the presentations, the four LLG Presidents shared their feedback and perspectives on the proposed cooperative framework.This led into an interactive question-and-answer session, which allowed participants to seek clarification and gain deeper insights into the cooperative model.The highlight of the day was the official launch of the Rai Coast 84 Wards Cooperative initiative by Hon. Kessy Sawang, who described the program as a transformative step toward strengthening community-driven economic development.In her closing remarks during the evening session, Minister Sawang expressed her gratitude to the 84 Ward Councilors, the four LLG Presidents, representatives from the Department of Commerce and Industry, Namani Lawyers, and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the workshop.As the first program of its kind in the Rai Coast District, this workshop has equipped ward leaders with a solid understanding of cooperative management and governance.The RDDA remains confident that this foundational initiative will create new opportunities for economic participation, encourage collective ownership of local development projects, and significantly strengthen community-led growth across the region.